Australia's John Butler Trio Unveils Sunrise Over Sea Highly Anticipated Full Length Debut To Be Released On Lava Records On March 15, 2005

NEW YORK, NY - January 14, 2005 - Critically acclaimed Australian import the John Butler Trio will release their highly anticipated debut album Sunrise Over Sea on Lava Records March 15th. The three-piece, powered by gifted vocalist/songwriter John Butler, will bring their soulful blend of roots-driven rock to the States this winter, as the band kicks off a promotional trek across the U.S.

Sunrise Over Sea is a mesmerizing cornucopia of blues, roots, rock and Appalachian folk, interspersed with hip-hop and reggae beats and unique guitar sounds. Butler, a multi-talented musician, expertly handles the guitar work on Sunrise Over Sea and is joined by upright bass aficionado Shannon Birchall and drummer/percussionist Michael Barker. The album features the infectious lead off track "Zebra" which is already a staple at AAA and alternative radio. Early supporters of the song include prestigious radio station KFOG in San Francisco and WXPN in Philadelphia. Standout tracks on the disc include the up-tempo album opener "Treat Yo Mama," crowd pleaser and live show favorite "Betterman," and the beautifully written love song "Peaches & Cream," which was inspired by John's daughter, Banjo.

In addition to the outstanding start at radio, the John Butler Trio has created quite a stir among critics. According to Australian Guitar magazine, "[John] is one of the most important artists, no further qualification necessary." And, the praise isn't limited to Down Under. In late summer of 2004, the John Butler Trio whet the American appetite with the release of their What You Want EP. The disc garnered the attention of prestigious roots magazine Paste who cited JBT as one of "Four To Watch in 2005." The New York Times described John's talent as a "guitarist who turns thoughtful songs into guitar and slide-guitar excursions," while the LA Weekly states "[Butler] is an inventive instrumentalist, sort of the Leo Kottke of open-tuned, finger-picked, slide guitar."

The John Butler Trio established themselves as one of Australia's most successful independent artists in recent history. Sunrise Over Sea debuted at #1 in their native country and is officially four times certified platinum in Australia and platinum in New Zealand. The band was nominated for five ARIA Awards in 2004, (Australian Grammys) taking home a total of three including "Best Male Vocalist," "Best Roots & Blues Album" and "Best Independent Artist." In addition, the trio scored the highly coveted "Song of the Year" award for "Zebra" at the 2004 APRA Awards (Australia's ASCAP/BMI equivalent. In addition, John Butler recently set up his own Arts Grant Scheme in Australia to help benefit emerging new artists. For more information go to www.thejbseed.com.

Last but not least, the John Butler Trio will appear as a headlining act on the Big Day Out Festival in Australia and New Zealand, the 2005 SXSW Music Festival in Austin, as well as performing live March 22 at New York's Hammerstein Ballroom, opening for the Black Crowes kick-off reunion gig.

The John Butler Trio will also announce a U.S. headline tour shortly, for more information, log onto johnbutlertrio.com.